The latest version of ECO-Assistant, the trim optimisation tool from FutureShip, the maritime consulting arm of Germanischer Lloyd (GL), incorporates a number of new features, including a fuel consumption calculator, system usage monitoring, benefit reporting and an E-learning module to speed familiarity with the system.
With some 600 installations since its introduction three years ago, ECO-Assistant has been proven to deliver significant energy fuel savings to its users and the new features will enhance the functionality and usability of the system.
Trim Optimisation
Trim optimisation is one of the most effective tools for enhancing ship fuel efficiency as it offers benefits which have been verified in sea trials, can be easily implemented on existing tonnage and has a payback time which can be measured in months.
Managing energy more efficiently has become a key area in shipping with the new SEEMP (Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan) regulations requiring greater monitoring and documentation, also an increasing point of emphasis from maritime authorities and contractual partners.
Optimising Ballast Water Management
According to FutureShip, the ECO-Assistant can improve efficiency by up to 6% or reduce CO2 emission for a 7500 teu container vessel at a slow steaming speed by 2740 tons per year. By integrating it with a vessel’s cargo planning system more fuel can be saved by optimising ballast water management.
Fuel Calculator
Reliable data on vessel fuel consumption is vital to benchmark and assess vessel and fleet performance and to fulfil charter agreements. Developed in partnership with Hamburg based ship operator NSC the new fuel consumption calculator in ECO-Assistant provides the fuel consumption for an arbitrary sailing condition with a single click.
This new function re-uses the hydrodynamic knowledge base behind the system’s trim optimisation to generate this information, while performance data and semi-empirical corrections are utilised to provide fuel consumption curves that reflect individual hull fouling, ambient conditions, fuel quality and engine characteristics.
Automated Reporting
The new reporting feature generates automated PDF reports for periods or voyages, stating usage and achieved savings. These reports can be used to demonstrate energy efficient operation for SEEMP documentation, national and port authorities, and between contract partners.
E-Learning
A new E-Learning module allows new users to familiarise themselves with ECO-Assistant anytime, anywhere, at their own chosen speed, whether for an initial introduction, or for a brush-up on a certain feature.
Picture: The Fuel Calculator predicts fuel consumption for actual load condition, speed and ambient conditions.
Below a screenshot of the trim optimiser. Please click the little squares (the pop-out link) to view the pictures in its proper dimension.
